Competing businesses debated Tuesday over a proposal to ban the sale of intoxicating hemp derivatives in St. Louis County. Marijuana industry officials urged the County Council to regulate the products over concerns about sales to kids and a lack of quality testing, but business owners who sell the hemp products said they sell responsibly and offer a more accessible, affordable option than marijuana.
"We know these products are for adults. We keep them in the hands of adults," said Mindy Baker, director of government relations for Total Wine and More. "Customers want them. Adults want them."
Councilwoman Lisa Clancy, who proposed the ban, said the county needs to take action because of a lack of state or federal regulations. Unlike marijuana, there are no age restrictions on the hemp derivatives, colorful packaging and candy edibles appeal to kids, and there are no requirements for testing, she said.
"These products are being sold outside of a regulated system," Clancy said. The manufacture of hemp-derived products is not regulated, and that causes safety concerns, said Stephanie Cernicek, a chemist who works for Mana Supply Holdings, which produces pot products, such as gummies.
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